- Immediate action as per the instructions of Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, further process will be done after health check-up.
A leopard that had been terrorizing Kerabahara village in Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband district was safely captured by the Forest Department on the morning of August 1, 2026. The leopard had been frequently visiting residential areas for over a month, causing panic among villagers. The Chhattisgarh Forest Department team acted swiftly, setting up a cage and safely capturing the animal without harm.
Following Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap’s instructions, the Forest Department achieved a major success in the village of Keravahara (village panchayat Jowa) within the Gariaband Forest Division’s Forest Range. The leopard was safely captured on Friday in a cage trap set up in response to the leopard’s frequent activity in the area. The Forest Department’s vigilance and timely action averted a potential human-wildlife conflict.
- Special surveillance was being maintained on the leopard’s movements.
Divisional Forest Officer Mr. Sasiganandan K. stated that the leopard had previously attacked domestic cattle in the area. Furthermore, there were reports of its presence near school premises and residential areas. In response, the Forest Department initiated special surveillance in the area and took necessary security measures.
- The strategy of cage trap and rescue team was successful
Cage traps were set in the villages of Jowa and Keravahara under the direction of Divisional Forest Officer Mr. Sasiganandan K., Deputy Director of Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Mr. Varun Jain, and Wildlife Veterinary Officer Dr. Rakesh Verma. A trained leopard rescue team equipped with necessary equipment was deployed to handle any emergency. Necessary permissions and guidelines were also obtained from the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) cum Chief Wildlife Warden, Chhattisgarh, for this operation.
- Health monitoring is being done after safe rescue
Due to the Forest Department’s constant monitoring and well-planned strategy, the leopard was safely caged. Upon receiving the information, a departmental team arrived at the scene and began monitoring the leopard’s health and behavior, ensuring its safety. Security arrangements were also made to prevent crowds from gathering at the scene.
- Further action will be taken based on the report of experts
The captured leopard is undergoing a health examination by a three-member veterinary team. The examination will assess its physical condition, any possible injuries or illnesses, and its suitability for release into its natural habitat. Based on the expert report, further action will be taken as per regulations.
- Avoid rumours, inform the forest department immediately
The Forest Department has appealed to villagers not to believe any rumors. If they receive any information regarding leopards, they should immediately inform the nearest forest staff. The department has clarified that the safety of both human life and wildlife is its top priority, and all necessary steps are being taken in accordance with regulations.
